Hendrik Lodewyk Harmse

Hendrik Lodewyk Harmse, age 54, of Lumberton, TX, passed away on June 15, 2022. He was born on January 16, 1968 in Johannesburg, South Africa to Henrik Lodewyk and Maria Elizabeth Bredenkamp Harmse.

A generous, compassionate man, Hendrik could not help but live his life to the fullest. If a maxim simplified this, it was the encouragement called out during baseball games to his son, “Hit with purpose!”, a saying that with his Afrikaner heritage sounded more like “Hit with porpoise!”. Born in South Africa, as he attended school and grew, he developed a passion for sports, especially his own sport, rugby. His athleticism and drive led to an early career in the sport that brough him many places around the world: playing for four years in Israel, being the first ever South African to play rugby in Russia, and finally travelling to Houston where he was involved with the Houston Rugby Club. Hendrik was hardworking and dedicated, and always found the positive no matter the circumstances or obstacles. He was friends with just about anyone that he crossed paths with. It was inherent for him to be there for anyone; however, he loved most and was made happiest by his family.  After retiring from athletics, as a manager for Dairy Queen, someone very special caught his eye. Working together at first with Amie, it soon became something very special, and their love blossomed. On her birthday, he placed a ring in her present and asked for her hand in marriage, and with the two tickets to Vegas she also received from him, off they went and on January 9, 2006, they sealed their love which would go on to bless them with 4 beautiful children. A deeply loving husband, father, and friend, Hendrik’s lively and compassionate spirit will be deeply missed by all those who loved and knew him.

Left to honor his memory is the love of his life and wife, Amie Harmse; sons, Gavin Harmse, Garrett Harmse, and Gunner Harmse; daughter, Gracelyn Harmse, who he affectionately called his “Pretty Girl”; brothers, Don Harmse and wife, Adri, and Jacques Harmse and partner, Loma; 15 nieces and nephews, with whom he shared a deep, loving bond; and a host of friends, extended family, and loved ones.

Preceding Hendrik in death are his parents.

Visitation with family and friends will be from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at Candlestick Baptist Church, 130 W Candlestick Dr, Lumberton, TX 77657. Hendrik’s life honoring service will begin at 2:00 p.m. also at the church, with Bro. Paul Scott officiating, and burial to follow at Old Hardin Cemetery, Kountze, TX.

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